Just popping in to say that I hope you are all doing well and that I'll catch you on the other teams or on your blogs or SparkPage next month! I enjoyed being part of the Hyacinths team and again am sorry I had to leave. It's been crazy busy for me right now, so I am not sparking much at all. Have a wonderful June!

Well today is the last day of our May Challenge. I have had a great time with all of you. I hope that we again be on the same team together again soon. Thank each and everyone of you for the support you have given me. Especially while I was sick in the hospital.

Cathy, you will be missed next month in the challenge. We will stay in touch.

Barb, hope your hubby gets out of the hospital soon.

Amanda, it has been great getting to know you this month.

CJ, as always it has been great being on the same team with you.

Tomorrow I leave for my family reunion and should be back on Sunday evening sometime.

This will be short since no one will likely read this. I really enjoyed chatting with each of you this month. It's been a trying month for many of us but I'm hoping that next month will prove to be a better month for all of us. I will try to keep up with your blogs next month even though I will not be participating in the challenges. Hope all of you have a great June!

Amanda - I'm glad to hear that the initial results from your stress test look good. I'll be watching for a blog from you about your test.

Barbara - I'm glad your hubby is in the hospital so that he can get the care he needs and you don't have to worry about him falling. I hope that when he is released that he will start to feel better and that he will not have anymore falls. I'm glad you have some people in your life in the real world that you can talk to. Any support helps I'm sure. I will look forward to any blogs from you about your hubby.

CJ - It has been a stressful month for many of us. I too am grateful that we werre here for each other. Hoping you will be feeling back to normal soon and that the new medication will help you feel better soon too.

Debbie - I don't know if you were planning on turning in the points for our team or not. I'm just going to assume that I'll be turning them in unless I hear from you otherwise.

Good evening my friends. It looks like hubby will be in the hospital until possibly Friday as his blood pressure took a dive again this morning. They are giving him something to help stabilize it. We are hoping that his kidney doctor will be getting requested for a consult but that doesn't seem to be happening, at least nothing as far as we know. This has all been a little frustrating, but I am glad he is in the hospital and I don't have to worry about him falling at home for at least a few more days.

I had lunch with a former co-worker today so that was nice, to have someone to chat with. Also another friend of ours and our Pastor came to visit at the hospital so at least we know we are not alone in our journey which helps the emotions.

@ Amanda - I am glad the tests seem to have turned out good. I keep praying that the get to the bottom of your problems too. Hugs.

I can't believe our month together is already over, but I am sure we'll still be chatting with each other through future challenges. Hugs to all of my dear teammates and friends. Thanks for your support during this especially trying month.

I'm away from my computer tonight so this is going yo be quick. May went so fast...but was happy to get to know everyone. I had my stress test done today..initial results look good and no problems. I will keep everyne updated through blogs.

Tomorrow is our official last day together as a team. I've enjoyed chatting with each of you this month. I'll be sitting out of the challenges next month but will probably do the July challenges. I'll just have to wait and see what things are like at the point in time. I hope all of you will enjoy the challenges next month and will do well. I might check in with one of the teams from time to time though.

Debbie - Great job on the walking! I hope you and your sister have a great time visiting with each other next week. I know my fur-kids always loved their walks too. I think it's great that the two of you are walking twice a day!

Amanda - I hope your test tomorrow goes well! I'll be thinking of you and hoping for good results. I hope you are able to stay strong and come home to eat a healthy meal tomorrow.

Barbara - I'm sorry your hubby is still in the hospital. Glad you were able to meet with the dietitian today and get good tips for when your hubby comes home. Wow, that doesn't seem quite right that the kidney doctor can't come in for a consult unless there's been a request by the hospital doctor. Maybe you can get the hospital doctor to put the request in again. Good for you for getting in some walking and weeding this afternoon. Glad you had a healthy dinner at home. I hope your hubby is able to come home soon! {{{hugs}}}

Good evening my friends. Another long day. Hubby is still in the hospital. Not sure when he will get home as I have heard varying days. Today I went to meet with the dietician from the Cancer Center and I got some good tips from her for when hubby does get home. The whole way things are held with the hospital stay are so confusing. Not sure if it is just this hospital or all in general, but their protocol doesn't seem to make much sense. Tonight Bill's kidney doctor showed up at the hospital - he had been on vacation and was checking in. However, it appears none of the doctors here can tend patients until the hospital's doctor requests a consult. So what the kidney doctor wants to happen may not happen because the hospital doctor canceled their request for a consult because he was gone.

I did manage to get in a 2.4 mile walk this afternoon and some weeding before going back for my visit this evening and I ate better today than yesterday. A friend stopped by the hospital so she and I had lunch together and then I had chicken out that needed cooked so I had dinner at home that was healthier too.

Not sure what tomorrow will bring. Hubby would like to come home, but his blood pressure was lower again this evening, even lying down, so he may not be getting home tomorrow either.

@ Amanda - good luck with your test tomorrow. The not eating for such a long period surely messes with our plans so I hope you are able to stay strong and eat your healthy chocies.

Dropping in real quick..then off to bed, have to be up by 6 tomorrow to be at hospital by 7 for stress test. They told me to plan on being at hospital for atleast 3 hours and nothing to drink or eat after midnight...im going to be starving. Im determined to come home and make a healthy choices. I will and can do this.

I woke up to a beautiful blue sky day! Katie and I went for our walk at about 9am and got home around 9:30am. We walked not quite a mile. We did stop and talk to a couple of neighbors on our walk. I am still trying to get house work done today. My sister Kay is coming to stay the night with us a week from Thursday. Since we won't be home this weekend due to the family reunion. I thought I would get the house ready early.

Cathy, Katie loves her walks. We are back to taking two walks a day.

Barb. I am sorry that you and your hubby didn't have a good weekend. Is your hubby home from the hospital now? I keep you both in my thoughts and prayers.

CJ, I am glad to hear you are feeling better and had a good Memorial Day. Leslie and I took took two of the missionaries frmo my church to dinner last night after tornado clean-up. We didn't have much to choose from when it came to places to eat. We had club sandwiches.

Amanda, it is always good to hear from you. When do you take your stress test?

Not much to report on today. I did finally get some rest yesterday and today. Did a couple of loads of laundry and went into town to get some groceries. Changed the bedding on the bed too.

We have an abundance of inch worms here this summer. Had to look up to see if they turn into butterflies. They don't they turn into a moth but there are many different types of moths that they can turn into. Anyway, I think we threw outside at least 20 - 25 of them this evening alone. We need to get a new rubber seal on the bottom of the front door. That is something I'm hoping DH can get easily at the lumber company in town.

My mom is going with my grandpa Wednesday to see his doctor. He's been having diarhea for 4 years now every day. I think the doctor doesn't take him seriously though because he'll say "...but I feel good!" My sister is going to go with them too. My grandpa lives in Denver and my mom live 80 miles or more south of Denver and my sister lives another 30+ miles south of my mom. I told my mom that I think that she should get the names of my grandpa's med's beforehand and ask my sister to look them up on the internet to see if there are any drug interactions and what their side effects are. My uncle whom lives in back of my grandpa will probably have to read the med's to my mom over the phone. This has gone on long enough and I think having diarhea for so long is taking it's toll on my 96 year old grandpa!

Amanda - We didn't do anything for the weekend. Today we just kind of took it easy and didn't do a whole lot. We're glad you are doing the challenges too! The reason for the challenges is to help keep us on track and it sounds like it's helping you. I would be interest in looking at your friends page. I'll try to remember to send you a message when I get up. Glad to hear you are doing the June Challenges. I'm taking a break from them but I think it will be good for you. :) It's been a while since I've had turkey burgers. I should get some ground turkey or chicken and make some burgers.

Debbie - I got some sleep but I need to catch up on my sleep for sure. That's alright about not being able to talk long. I still enjoyed our conversation. :) Great job on the walk with Katie! I know she enjoys her walks!

CJ - Glad to hear you are doing a little better. Ugh! I'm sure your abs did get a bit of a workout with all of the coughing. ;-) Thanks for checking in with us.

Barbara - I'm so sorry to hear that your hubby fell and that he had to be admitted to the E.R.! I so hope he'll start to feel better soon and that your lives will get back to normal soon too! {{{hugs}}}

Just stopping in to say hi. It has been a very tiring weekend. We went to Urgent Care yesterday to have his IV taken out, but instead we were sent to the E R and, after falling while in ex Ray, he was admitted.

Hello Hyacinths - Memorial Day greetings to you all. We're having watermelon today. I'm doing better after a few days of marathon coughing. Could I count that as exercise ? my abs have really been getting a workout

I know I'm behind in reading messages but I wanted to be sure to check in today. I'll try to get back on later. Hugs, CJ

CJ ~A&I March Dancing Daffodils BSG Team

~Team Co-Leader: Stronger Seniors, Laugh-A-Lot: a guide to a lighter lovable YOU

Happy Memorial Day to the Hyacinths! Hope everyone is having a good, healthy and safe day! Today is just a normal day for me, making burgers (turkey burger, no bun) for me with some fresh juicy strawberries.

Will try to check in later to see if anything is doing on. Hope everyone is doing well!

Today is laundry day and house cleaning day for me. Leslie and I are also taking two missionaries from my church out to dinner this evening. I think we are going to a new BarBQ place in town. I wanted to get in here and check in before I get started on the house cleaning. I already have a load of laundry started. Katie and I have already got our mile and a quarter walk in this morning.

Soryy I didn't get on yesterday! Leslie and I spent a good deal of time down in Ardmore with my family celebrating my nephew's graduation. We got home late yesterday evening.

CJ, I am sorry to hear about your bronchitis. I am sure with rest and medication you will be back to health soon.

Cathy, wow did you get any sleep at all? I always enjoy talking to you on the pnone. I am just sorry it was a short conversation.

Barb, I hope you have a better day tomorrow. It sounds like you could use some rest.

Amanda, hope you things are going well for you.

Amy, when does your school year end? We are getting lots of support for the survivors from the tornado's. One of the church's hear in Norman had to stop taking donations untill they found a new place to store things. My church sent our work crews to help clean up in Little Axe, OK which is a small community south of Norman.

Good Morning everyone! Does anyone have anything exciting planned for today or tomorrow? Im more than likely just staying home and relaxing and trying to fit some light exercise in. Im so glad I have this challenge and a couple other I am doing it, because it would be hard not to give up. You guys motivate me every step of the way!

For those of you asking, my online coach and friend, krystie was someone I met through here. She has helped me so much. She has her personal trainer certification, if anyone wants more info, send me a message. I can send anyone who is interested her fb page or her weight loss page. But I have to do it through a private message!

Barbara- Hope your hubbys doctor figures something out and there are no hospital visits this weekend. Hugs!

Cathy--- Hope you get some sleep- you must be exhausted! Im hoping that I can get as many minutes as I can and have decided that Im going to do the June challenge, because I know I will do whatever it takes to get fitness mins and will be doing every things else.

It's almost 7:30 am and I haven't been to bed yet. Got quite a bit of work done on our video game today. I also got in nearly an hour of exercise today.

My FIL was suppose to have left yesterday to come home. He said he would call before he left but as usual I'm sure he forgot to call before he left. I really feel strongly that he has the beginnings of dementia. He never goes to the doctor though unless he has to. I don't think he even has a primary care doctor that he ever sees. He has medicare so I've thought about trying to get him to go see my primary care doctor for a yearly general health exam. If I can get him to go see her then I think I'll talk to her and ask her to evaluate him for the beginnings of dementia. That is the only thing I can think of to do.

Amy - It was great to hear from you. Boy you are busy with school and getting everything out of your house. You don't need to appologize for writing so much! You have a lot going on and it's good for you to talk about all that is going on. I'm sure you have a lot of mixed emotions involved with all of this. I really hope you can find your fitbit! I might do the July challenges but it will just depend upon what is going on in my life at that time. I think it's kind of good to let go of the challenges sometimes. It seems like it helps to take a bit of a break from them. I will probably check in with one of the teams once in a while next month. My pink boxing gloves should be here Tuesday or later in the week. Thanks for the compliments about my blogs! :)

Amanda - Sorry to hear about your bad night! I hope that yesterday was a better day for you! The 3.5 pounds could be many different things. I choose to not focus on the scale but rather how I'm doing overall. I hope you'll be feeling better soon!

Barbara - I'm sorr you had another long day and that your hubby is having so many problems due to the cancer and other things. I hope the cancer doctor is able to figure something out with his blood pressure and needing fluids so often. I know this has to be taking it's toll on both of you in many ways! I sure hope that things will calm down and you can get back to a normal life. Good for you on the walk!

Well, I think I'm going to go take a nap for a while. I'll talk to all of you later on or tomorrow.

Just stopping in for a quick hi this evening. It's been another long day. I got my hair cut at 11 and then came home and took hubby to the Urgent Care for more fluids. His blood pressure was scarily low and was still low after 2 liters of liquids. We decided we should call the cancer doctor so we have a call in to him and he is trying to figure something out to keep hubby out of the hospital this weekend. We are both so ready to have this roller coaster called our present life stop so we can get off. LOL Anyway, I did get in a 3 mile walk because the rain didn't show up until this evening.

I will catch up more with you all tomorrow if I can. I hope you are have a great weekend. Keep focused so you don't derail on the weekend. I'm doing my best to take my own advice.

Good morning! Last night ended up being a rough night, found myself binging due to stress, so need to go back and fix my points for yesterday. But Today is a new day! Yesterday is in the past! Today I will make healthy choices, will drink all my water, will stay on track, and will do what I can to make today a great day! Todays weigh in day and im up like 3,5 pounds, don't understand it, but it is what it is, and all I can do is make today a great day!

I woke up at 3 AM and couldn't get back to sleep, so I finally decided to stop looking at email on my phone and get online on my computer. Stopping by here to say hi and wish all of you a happy Memorial Day weekend! Is anyone doing anything fun?

It's been another busy week for me! I only have 11 days of teaching left and 12 total work days till retirement! In less than a month we will be living in our motorhome! It all is going so fast, and despite the excitement, I am starting to get really nervous (hence the reason I am up in the middle of the night on Saturday!) This weekend we are mostly going to be working at home on packing and I'll be weeding in the gardens again on Sunday or Monday and also going to visit my parents. Later today we are invited to friends' house for a barbecue. but inside with the rain and chilly weather. It changed from hot and humid in the beginning of the week to low 60's yesterday and down in the 40's last night! Crazy! I think it will be back to normal end of May temps by Monday.

Yesterday we gave away some furniture to the woman who staged our house (a leather recliner, 2 coffee tables and two end tables.) She will be coming back to take more chairs, end tables and lamps our last week in the house (we should be moving out Father's Day weekend.) The buyers should be coming here soon to inspect the pool now that it's open. Dave may meet the guy and go over with him how everything works.

On the school end of things, there is still so much to do, as well! I continue to clean out things in my classroom bit by bit. Yesterday afternoon I took an hour after the kids left to clean out/organize my desk. On Tuesday I was home and went through a bunch of my reading files. I finished up reading tests with my students and had to turn in the scores and info cards on all of my students to the office. We had a delightful field trip to a watershed conservancy (field and stream study) on Thursday. My last field trip as a teacher...I have been taking the time to really observe my students and savor the moments...I am getting a bit emotional about these last days with them! I still have to do my last report cards but I can't work on them till next weekend. Thursday evening there was a retirement party at a restaurant for me and two other teachers in my school. My second grade team did a Top Ten List of reasons they love and will miss me, and they gave me a bag full of fun gifts for camping. I also got a jewelry box with an engraved quote on the top and a caricature drawing of me in front of the school done by the art teacher. I had a lovely time and am really going to miss everyone!

Sorry to write so much, but I feel a need to tell someone what's been going on. I miss chatting with everyone here, but I would be doing terrible with the challenge, as I have not been eating well at all, haven't done any formal exercise. and just don't have the time to chat every day. I don't know how or when it happened, but I can't find my fitbit, so I haven't even been tracking my steps. Hopefully it shows up somewhere in the house!

Cathy, glad to hear you had a nice conversation with your mom. Sorry to hear your FIL was in the hospital for a kidney infection. I would also be upset that no one told me. I am glad your knee is healing gradually. Sounds like you have been busy with all the spring cleaning. I also will not be doing the challenges in June, since it will be a real crazy month for me. By July things will settle down and I will have a lot of time on my hands to focus on healthy living and get back to an active Spark People life! It's hard to let go of the challenges when you've been doing them for so long, because of all the friendships we've made, but it's also good to take a little breather. I agree that it can take over your life! You can do what I am doing now, checking in with friends once in a while. I'm glad that Sheila will be taking over for you next month. It is a lot of work. I will definitely be taking my exercise DVDs and hand weights with me in the RV, including good ole Leslie Sansone (perfect for rainy days!) Pink boxing gloves sound really cool! I am trying to picture you wearing and using them! I do miss writing the team blogs...I will check out yours very soon. You always write great ones!

CJ, oh, no! I'm so sorry to hear you have bronchitis. on top of your other health challenges. That especially stinks during this time of year! Take care of yourself and get some good rest this weekend. That's cute that your daughter is giving you have a complaining card! We do need to share our grumblings with those who care, and then it makes us feel a bit better! That's what's great about the challenge teams!

Debbie, enjoy your nephew's graduation and party! My nephew graduates next week, but they only live a half hour away from us. I am so glad that you and Leslie weren't affected by the horrible tornadoes in your area (I feel so sad for the children who lost their lives at the elementary schools that were hit - seeing all the damage on the news is heartbreaking!) I was sorry to hear that your aunt's house was hit but very glad to hear that they were safe. Where are they staying now? I hope they will be able to have another house built. I will be looking for a way to help out the victims as well, hopefully through my friend's church. We have plenty of things to donate.

Barbie, I'm so glad to hear you had a better day yesterday with a nice walk and chat with your son, and that your hubby was feeling a bit better. I am glad that he doesn't have to have a colonoscopy. Sure hope the shingles and diarrhea clear up for him soon! I also hope that you won't have as many appointments at the cancer center this coming week!

Amanda, I'm very glad you went to the doctor to get those chest pains checked out with tests. I hope the prescription allergy medicine relieves your symptoms, and hopefully the stress test and xrays will not turn up anything serious. I hope you wil do the challenge for June for the great support. Everyone is so understanding that you won't let anyone down with your exercise points. You just do what you can and are allowed to do. I am so sorry to hear that you don't have health insurance and have so many medical bills. I am also sorry that you have pain from your hysterectomy. That's great that you have a wonderful online coach. How exciting that you will be getting together very soon!

Well, I know I didn't catch up with all of the news since last week, but I think I did a decent job of it. It's actually starting to get light outside, so I've been writing for quite a while. Hopefully I can get a nap in later today before the barbecue.

Not much to report on tonight. I called my mom to wish her a happy birthday this evening since it was her birthday. We talked for quite a while too. Talked to my FIL today too since he hasn't come back from Colorado yet. We found out that he had to be hospitalized for a severe kidney infection. He's out now but no one told us this!! He was only in for a day but my SIL or BIL should have called and told us!

My knee is getting better and I'm able to get around without crutches or a cane now but I can tell that my knee is definitely far from being healed.

Amanda - I'm sorry that you are going to have to go in for a stress test, xrays and all that. I hope that the allergy medicine works and that the stress test as well as xrays come back with good results. Sorry to hear you are on exercise restrictions. Light and short walking is good and better than nothing. Is your friend Krystie a SP coach? Is that how the two of you met? I think you should join the challenges next month. Just let everyone know that your fitness minutes may not be the best. You'll be fine between house cleaning, gardening and short walks. The main thing is to get and give each other support / encouragement! That's what really matters and not the points.

Barbara - I'm so glad you had a fairly decent day today! Yay on the 2 mile walk while your hubby was getting hydrated. That's cool that you got to stop and chat with your son for a little bit on your way back to the cancer clinic. I'm glad to hear that your hubby was his best feeling day today in a while. Glad to hear that the shingles aren't too painful for him I hope that the chemo is the culprit for his diarrhea. Yeah, I had a fairly productive day yesterday. Not so much today though.

Debbie - Glad we got to talk for a bit this afternoon. Hope you have a good time at your nephew's graduation party tomorrow.

CJ - I'm so sorry to hear you are coughing and not feeling well. lol That's funny that your daughter gave you a "complaining card". Complain all you want, we can take it! ;-) Hope you feel better soon!

Hi Friends - I'm definitely in the bronchitis type of coughing. Yuck. It makes my head hurt when I cough that hard. But it's familiar. I used to have bronchitis all the time as a child. It's been a long time since I've experienced it. Guess it is my turn. Stephanie has given me a "complaining" card - giving me permission to grouse about how I feel. Somehow having permission to complain makes it easier not to. Come to think of it - that's what we do for each other, isn't it. So glad we have this team together.

Take care everyone. I've taken my cough medicine and I need to go to bed while it's working.

CJ ~A&I March Dancing Daffodils BSG Team

~Team Co-Leader: Stronger Seniors, Laugh-A-Lot: a guide to a lighter lovable YOU

Just a quick drop in to say hi. I will be back tomorrow morning to respond to your posts. It has been a long day an tomorrow will be another one. My nephew graduated from high school today. Tomorrow my sister is throwing a big party for him. Which means a long drive to Ardmore for the party. We won't be leaving till around noon since the party is at 2pm.

Good evening my friends. today has been a fairly decent day. Hubby had to go in for hydration again today, but I went for a nice 2 mile walk while he was doing it. Worked out great. I went in with him and got him situated and then took off. I walked by where my son and his wife work and on my way back they were out so I stopped for a short chat with my son. I got back just as hubby was finishing up.

Another good thing about today is that it was one of hubby's best feeling days in a while. After the hydration we stopped by the dietician's office to sign paperwork just in case he is unable to make it to his appointment for any reason. This afternoon was his appointment with his general doctor who confirmed that it is shingles. Thankfully they are not too painful for him. I hope that continues. This doctor agrees with us that he believes the diarrhea is from his chemo treatments so we are to journal those so we can have concrete evidence. Hubby won't have to have a colonoscopy at least not now. Woo hoo.

@ Amanda - is your online coach through Spark or how did you get started with that? I am sorry you will be incurring more medical costs than you want to, but I am glad the doctor is being thorough. In my opinion you should definitely participate with next months BSG challenges. I think you would be able to accumulate enough points that you won't bring your team down and everyone's points are combined and average so it works out fairly. Remember the support and encouragement is a huge part of what makes the challenges so awesome.

@ CJ - I am sorry you have the cold back. I think it is this crazy weather that keeps everyone having the recurring illnesses.

@ Debbie - you did what you needed to do, being there for your niece so don't worry about our team's points. Even if someone hadn't taken care of it, life happens and I am sure your friends and teammates would understand. Was your niece in the area of the tornado?

Hello Hyacinths! I had my doctor appointment today, while it didn't go horrible, it didn't exactly go good either. I have to go for a stress test, chest xrays, and go back to my doctor in a month. He put me on prescription strength allergy medicine, and depending on test results, and how I feel in a month, we will go from there. If I get worse, supposed to call him right away or go to ER. Im on exercise restrictions, although I will try to get a light 15 minute walk or something similar every day that I can. I go for stress test next Wednesday! Then my dear friend, Krystie, who is my online coach and become a good friend, who I first met through here is coming to meet me from Atlanta and spend a few days here! Im so so excited!

Im not sure if I should participate in next months BSG challenge or not. Since I can count house cleaning, gradening, etc, I should be able to get a fair amount of exercise mins in. But not sure, don't want to bring any team im on down, but I love doing this challenge!

Hope everyone had a great day! Hope everyone has a safe, fun, and healthy holiday weekend!

Today was another busy day. Did a little more spring cleaning and moved some thing around in the kitchen so that certain things that I use most often are right there together. I also got my exercising in today. I also got some zucchini seeds planted. They are old but I hope they'll germinate. I had bought some others a few weeks ago but can't seem to figure out where I put them.

Amanda - I'm glad you are going to see the doctor. I know you don't want the medical bills but sometimes you just have to go for the sake of your health. I really hope that the chest pains are from your allergies! Please let us know what the doctor says. Cleaning is considered exercise. Under the fitness tracker search for deep cleaning and you can count it as exercise. I'll be thinking of you tomorrow! {{hugs}}

Barbara - I'm so sorry you are having to spend so much time at the cancer center. I know that has to be taking it's toll on both of you physically and mentally! I too hope that this will all be worth it in the end. Sorry you had to cancel the appointment with the dietitian. That doesn't make any sense that they wouldn't discuss things with you since they aren't discussing medical records. That had to have been really frustrating. I'm also sorry to hear that your hubby has shingles on top of everything else! Poor guy! Glad it's not too painful though. I hope you can make the time to get out and get some exercise tomorrow. You don't need to stay positive for us! You are going through a lot and we are here for you! {{hugs}}

CJ - I'm sorry to hear your cold has come back! Ugh! I know that's really frustrating! Many of us are having some sort of health issue it seems. I like putting the challenges together but I feel like right now all I'm doing is treading water here on SP. I'm glad I've been able to do it while Sheila has been dealing with her own health issues as well as those in her family. Thankfully Sheila is putting the challenges together next month. I just don't seem to have time to do anything else except do the challenges. I rarely have time to check in with my other spark friends. I even more rarely have the time to check in with other Spark teams. Aw, thank you for your kind words! I care about all of you too and I think you are a pretty super lady yourself!

Debbie - Things come up so it's okay that you didn't turn the points in this morning. I turned them in this afternoon and they weren't technically due until this evening. It has nothing to do with you Debbie my thinking about dropping out of the challenges for June. I just never have time to do anything else on SP but do what I can for the challenges. Like I told CJ, I rarely have time to check in with my other Spark Friends and extremely rarely have a chance to check in with the other Spark teams I'm on. I just feel like the challenges have taken control over my life and I can't seem to get anything else done.

I really dropped the ball this week with doing the points for the team. I did the points for those who had their templates filled out last night. I was going to double chec this morning to make sure if anyone else had filled out their templates.Unfortunately early this morning my adopted niece called me and needed me to go with her some where. I did not get the points sent to Sheila. I am so sorry for not getting this done.

Cathy, I am so sorry to hear you are thinking about dropping out of the challenge for June. I wish there was something I could do to change your mind.

Barb, I am keeping you in my thoughts and prayers. Cancer is a terrible disease. I hope the treatment that your DH's doctors are putting him through will bring him to remission.

Amanda, I hope your doctor finds a way to treat your chest pains. I know that allergies can cause chest pains. My allergies cause me to have asthma attacks from time to time.

CJ, hope your treatment is still working well for you.

I need to go for now. It is past my bedtime. I have another early morning tomorrow.

Hi Friends - I'm not sure what is going on, but you remember that cold I had? The one that had gotten well? Seems I'm back to sore throat and cough, etc. What is that? I feel like I'm playing the loser in the health lottery. Actually lots of us are experiencing something like that, aren't we.

Barbara - I do hope all this effort is making a difference for your hubby. And shingles? That is just so not good. I continue to hold you both up for comfort and healing.

Amanda - Soooooo good that you are going to the dr. Hope you get some help and caring answers.

Cathy - Well first of all I want to send you my thanks for all the work you do setting up and getting our challenges online for us. I know you will make the right choice about participating next month. I'll try to keep in touch with you either way because you are super lady and I care about how you are doing.

Edited by: CJWORDPLAY at: 5/24/2013 (00:40)

CJ ~A&I March Dancing Daffodils BSG Team

~Team Co-Leader: Stronger Seniors, Laugh-A-Lot: a guide to a lighter lovable YOU

Good evening my friends. It's been another lazy day as well as cold. We got to spend the morning at the Cancer Center again and it looks like we get to do it again tomorrow as well. That makes all 5 days this week. Sure is a drag but I am just praying it is all worth it in the end. We had to cancel this afternoon's appointment with the dietician because he got diarrhea again. It was frustrating because first they said I could go for him and then they called back immediately and said he has not signed consents so I couldn't. It's not like it is his medical records so I was a little irritated especially since I had cancelled an appointment I had so we could go to his appointment. Tomorrow will be the morning at the Cancer Center and then an appointment with his general doctor in the afternoon about his ongoing diarrhea. On top of all else that he has been having to deal with the nurses told him his rash is shingles. So far not too painful, but just tender.

I am going to try to make myself get out and get in some exercise tomorrow. I wanted to today but my tummy wasn't feeling that well either so I didn't.

Sorry to make this so short, but as you can tell appointments and such have overtaken our lives. I am working on staying positive and encouraging, but struggling at times.

@ Amanda - I am glad you are going to the doctor and I pray it is nothing. Hugs

Good evening everyone! Im trying to stay positive today and trying my best to stay on track. I have a wonderful online weight coach, who has been keeping my motivated every step of the way, without her and everyone here at spark, I don't know where I would be. I called doctor today and made appointment, I go in tomorrow at 145 pm. Going to talk to him about if this for sure is allergies, and whats causing the chest pain. I don't want to go because I don't want the medical bills..but its to the point now, where im afraid not to go.

Sorry this is so short, but Im not feeling the greatest. I didn't do any actual exercise today, but did clean for over an hour today, so that's something, right?

Going to make this short tonight. Had a busy day today and didn't get any exercising in except for lots of walking while I was in town today. Tomorrow I'll have to get my exercising in for sure. It's a good thing you mentioned the points Debbie. I almost forgot even though we had until midnight Thursday night to get them done. Thank you for turning in the points for this week! I really appreciate it!!

I'm thinking about taking next month off from the challenges. I just am feeling run down mentally and feel like I kind of need a break from the challenges. I think part of it is taking the time to put the challenges together and then doing them plus being the team leader for the last several months has kind of taken it's toll on me. Don't know for sure what I'm going to do. Still thinking about it.

Well, I'll check in with all of you tomorrow. Hope all of you have a terrific Thursday!

I just checked the points for the 3rd week. I only have points for two other team mates other than myself. I will not be turning in the points untill tomorrow morning. I will check back in on the points before turning in our total points to Sheila.

Today has been a long one. I went with my adopted niece to go look at new place for her family to move in. We didn't make it though. We spent an hour and a half on I35 and only got about 3 miles. I live on the other side of the tornado damage from the place we were going to. We decided to get off of the highway and go back to my place. Tomorrow we will try again taking another route then I have to go house sit with my friend while movers pack and load her house. Her husband has to work and she doesn't like being there by herself with the movers.

I will get the team points done as soon as I am through here. Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers the past couple of days. I hope all of you are doing all right.

CJ, at least all it is doing is raining where you are.

Cathy, you blog was fantastic. I really enjoyed reading it.

Barb, good for you having leftovers so no cooking for you tonight.

Amanda, don't wait to long to see the doctor. I am keeping you in my thoughts and prayers.

Hello my friends. It was another cold and wet day today. We got to spend all morning at the cancer center again getting hubby hydrated. When we got home though a friend brought me leftovers so I don't have to cook tonight. I am so thankful for that. This afternoon hubby and I watched a movie that I absolutely love "Soul Surfer". Tomorrow we get to spend the morning at the cancer center again to get his chemo shot and probably get hydrated again. Then he also has to get lab work done for two doctors and an appointment with the dietician so it will be a busy day. Then Friday afternoon we have an appointment with his general doctor. The cancer doctor wants him to be evaluated to make sure the ongoing diarrhea issues aren't something more. I am appreciative of their thoroughness but we are both sick of all the appointments.

@ CJ - I am glad you found some DVDs that help with your fibro and that you were able to get your shopping done when it wasn't a downpour.

@ Amanda - I am sorry about your ongoing chest pain. I will be praying for you to get a good outcome when you visit the doctor.

@ Cathy - way to go getting in your exercise on such a busy day.

@ Debbie - so glad the tornadoes missed you and I pray they let up soon. Watching the news I can't even imagine what those people are facing.

Today was a crazy day. Started out good, got rough, and ended out not too bad. I had a severe anxiety attack today in walmart, I was so shaken up, I couldn't do anything, and still don't feel very well hours later. My chest is hurting today, so calling the doctor tomorrow, and one way or the other, I will get there!

Had a busy day today. Had to go into town to get some medicine. One of them didn't get refilled because the prescription had been prescribed by my previous doctor and it had run out. So, I had to wait while they got together an emergency supply to last me for a few days while I wait for my current doctor to send in a new prescription. Then we had to go and get a bunch of groceries.

I got my exercising in today too. I did some walking with Leslie Sansone and some abdominal exercises. I ordered some pink boxing gloves so that I can use the punching bag more. I was developing sores on my hands without any so I went ahead and bought some on Amazon.com. Just waiting for them to be delivered now.

Debbie - I'm glad to hear you are safe! I was wondering how you were! It is very sad for the people whom have lost loved ones and / or their homes. That's so nice of you to gather up what you can to donate to the people whom have been affected by the tornadoes. No, we've just had rain and wind but that's it. Nothing too bad weather wise.

Amanda - Glad to hear your chest pains were better today. You can talk to the hospital and ask them to cut down your hospital bills. You can also talk to them about making payments. I hope that the allergy med's help. You might try doing yoga to relieve your stress. I know after I'm done I feel like a completely different person. I can really understand about the hospital bills and how frustrating it can be to not have insurance. I'm sorry you were in pain from your hysterectomy. Glad you stayed on track even though you were in pain! Did you get any medicine to take for your hormones after having your hysterectomy? If not, you should talk to your doctor about it. I think it would help you feel better. My mom had to take hormones for a while after she had her hysterectomy. She felt better after she got some medicine.

Barbara - I'm so sorry you and your hubby are having to go through so much with all that is going on with him. I really hope things will get better for the two of you soon! Hang in there! {{hugs}}

CJ - Glad to hear that the fibro dvd helps you to get rid of tension. It sounds like it might be good to do it more often.

Hello Friends - a total downpour morning for us. I did get out to do some grocery shopping when it wasn't raining so hard this afternoon. Also did a fibro dvd for stretch and relaxation. I think I need to do it more often - it helps be let go of tension from sitting.

Barbara - oh, my. what can I say. it does sound like your life is centered around dr. appts. and waiting to see what else is going to show up. It's good that they are working to help your husband feel better even though you must both be exhausted. I hope it helps to know that I care and want the best for you and your hubby.

Amanda - yes, it is so difficult without medical insurance. I don't like my health decisions to be based on what I can afford. If it weren't for medicare I would have no insurance and there was a time when I didn't. It just seems so unfair. I know you are doing your best to take care of yourself.

Debbie - I'm happy to hear that you are safe. But, oh, how sad for all the people who have lost loved ones. That's good that there is a place to share with those who need clothing, etc.

CJ ~A&I March Dancing Daffodils BSG Team

~Team Co-Leader: Stronger Seniors, Laugh-A-Lot: a guide to a lighter lovable YOU

Hello my friends. Today has been an exhausting day here. When I got up to go to the bathroom the sun was out and brightly shining, but a half hour later when I got up it was gone and the rain was here. Totally bummed me out. On top of that hubby still had diarrhea this morning and he had a doctor's appointment at 11:00 so fun times there. Well, that doctor's office suggested he go back to the cancer center to get more hydration because his blood pressure was too low. So 11-12 was the doctor's appointment. Then I tried to squeeze in a lunch date which I had preplanned and then I had to rush home and take him to the cancer center where we spent the next two hours and they scheduled him to come back tomorrow morning at 9:15. I really feel like they have taken over my life. Anyway, so there's no exercise for me today and very little of anything else, but life goes on.

@ Amanda - Having no insurance really sucks. My son and his family went through that a few years ago and it seemed things continued to go wrong for them so I can understand where you're at right now. How long ago did you have your hysterectomy? When I had mine I was surprised at how long it took to really get back to normal but I did finally get there. I pray that you are able to figure out and relieve the chest pains and all that you are experiencing.

Good Evening Hyacinths! My chest pain has been better, more like a heavy feeling today. I have no insurance, and got my hospital bills, and it was over $4000....and that's on top on the tens of thousands I have of medical bills from last year and then having a hysterectomy. SO it seems like it never ends....So not sure what Im doing. I seriously think its partially stress and partially allergies. A friend suggested that I find what it causing stress and find ways to better deal with it, so im going to try that and see If the chest pain gets better. I started taking Allergra (walmart brand) instead of walmart brand zyrtec and that seems to be working better. When I know im going to be outside, ill do an extra dose, so that seems to help. Its so frustrating with no insurance.

Today was a frustrating day all around, had to deal with so much today, on top of just plain not feeling well. I have days where I dont feel so well and im in pain from having a hysteroctomy, and today is one of those days where im having some pain, and it got me so frustrated. I dealt with it well, no binging, no unhealthy choices! I completely stayed on track!

Ill write more tomorrow, I have a busy day tomorrow and am off to bed in hopes I feel better.

Hope everyone had an amazing day! I love being part of this team! It gives me people to be accountable to, to talk to, and know that I have people who care and understand!

The last two days here in Oklahoma has been stressful. Leslie and I have been very fortunate that the two tornados that came near us missed our neighborhood. It is for those who were not so fortuante that I feel for. The tornado that hit Moore yesterday (north of us) destroyed two grade schools. I am trying to think of gathering things up to donate to the one of the churches that is gathering things for people who have been affected by the tornados.

CJ, I am happy to hear that your treatment is going well.

Barbara, Katie and I are working on those miles we actually got a 1/2 mile walk yesterday after the storm.

Amanda, have they found out what is causing the chest pains yet? I am glad to hear things are better.

Cathy, doing the points this week is no problem. Did you get any of this bad weather?

Below is the link to this weeks blog from me! Past two days have been a real trial with the weather. Two tornados came pretty close to where we live. We suffered no damage but lost powere almost all day yesterday.

Today wasn't a very good day. Didn't feel all that great today so I took a long nap. My shoulders have been hurting too since I did so much spring cleaning over the weekend. After taking some aspirin though they have finally stopped hurting. Tomorrow I'll have to get back on the exercise bandwagon.

We haven't had any tornadoes here which I am very grateful for. A tornado has never hit in this particular area before but there is always a chance that it could.

My nephew plans on joining the Navy now that he has graduated. It would have been nice if he had gone to college but not everyone is suited for college. His dad said that he doesn't have the discipline to go to college. I think joining the military is a good option for him.

CJ - Glad you had a nice quiet weekend catching up with laundry and watching old movies. I too am glad my nephew graduated and that they had a nice celebration. I too hope Amber is able to make better choices in her life; it definitely does depend on it. Yeah, it's good to remember that the decisions we make not only affect our own lives but the people that are around us too. Glad to hear that the physical therapist told you not to do something if it's hurting. Sorry to hear you felt tired today and that your energy varies each day. I hope that the medicine will start to make you feel a bit better and that tomorrow you'll have more energy.

Amanda - Glad you are back home and getting back into your normal routine. That's great that you had such a good time taking care of your 2 yr old nephew! It was a busy weekend and thanks for the congrats on my nephew graduating.

Barbara - Glad you had a fairly decent day today. Oh my goodness! I'm so sorry to hear that your hubby passed out and fell! I'm glad he didn't injure himself. I'm sure it must have been really scary for both of you. I hope that getting hydrated helps him. I sure hope he starts to feel better soon as I'm sure you do as well! Glad to hear that the sun came out today. I'm sure it was nice to be outside and to get the weeding in your flower beds done. Good for you for making yourself go for a bike ride. I hope that what the nurse told him and you telling him about being more active will get through to him. Maybe he'll start trying to be a bit more active now. I'm sure you did feel the affects of all that weeding you did. lol I hope you can get your vacuuming done tomorrow and that your hubby's doctor's appointment will not leave you feeling wiped out.

Debbie - Thinking about you with the tornadoes that hit Oklahoma. Please let us know that you are alright.

Hello Friends - I went to physical therapy today. We spent time breathing through stretches so I can relax better. At one point I said, "what I'm doing hurts" and she said, "don't do that!" : ) Sounds like that old joke - but it is nice to have someone tell me I don't have to do things that hurt. I'm doing fine with the medication - just very tired today - and muscles are weak. That's a normal occurrence with fibro - strength and energy varies every day. So I'm just letting it pass and hoping for more energy tomorrow.

Barbara - how frustrating that your hubby passed our and took a fall. I'm sure that isn't what he wants for himself. Hope the hydration helps. It's so disturbing to have your body become unreliable, isn't it. Tell him from me that whatever he needs to do to take care of himself is okay. Good for you getting out in the sun. It sure felt nice to not get rained on.

I'm wondering about you folks in the midwest. Hope you are okay after all the tornadoes. (Guess I won't complain about some clouds and rain.)

Amanda - I'm happy you had a great visit with your nephew. Lucky boy to have such a fun auntie.

CJ ~A&I March Dancing Daffodils BSG Team

~Team Co-Leader: Stronger Seniors, Laugh-A-Lot: a guide to a lighter lovable YOU

Good evening my friends. Today was a fairly decent day although I got jolted awake early this morning when hubby passed out and fell. He ripped the towel rack off the wall, but thankfully he didn't injure himself. It was quite scary though. This is the second time in the last few days so today I went and bought him a cane to help him although I am not sure if he passes out it will be much help. Anyway, because of his fall we got to spend an extra hour at the cancer center so he could get hydrated. Not sure if that helped, but that was their hope at least. I was very happy to see the sunshine out today since I thought it was predicted to be quite chilly and start raining in the next day or two. So, since our front flowerbeds are really beginning to look ugly I spent a good hour out there cutting dead flowers and such. I thought about that being all of my exercise, but since it was sunny out I told myself I really better go for a bike ride or I would be mad at myself when it is cold tomorrow and I won't want to so I went for a 40 minute 7 mile bike ride. @ Cathy – Wow you are so good to limit yourself to yummy candies. I keep telling myself I will be there too one day, just not there quite yet. I am glad you got to see pics of your nephew's graduation. It really sounds like Amber should have learned her lesson. I sure pray she never touches alcohol again. @ Amanda - I read your blog on your NSV about clothes shopping. I am so proud of you! Keep up the great work. @ Cathy – Today was hubby's chemo treatment so he has felt really lousy, but I am going to try to get him to be a tad more active in the hope that it will help some of his pain. The nurse today told him the same thing about massage and/or physical therapy so maybe he will be more willing to do it more regularly, at least I hope so. I am going to be counting my weeding today as exercise too. I could sure feel it. LOL Tomorrow I hope to vacuum the kitchen and family room if hubby's doctor's appointment, etc. don't wipe me out.

@ CJ – How are things with your new medication going?

@ Debbie – Thank you for offering to be co-captain this week. I hope you and Katie were able to get out and get in some miles.

Good Morning Everyone! Sorry I didn't check in yesterday, I had such a crazy day! Im back home and excited to be back to my normal routine. My meals were so messed up with being at my sisters, since we were busy, they eat at different times due to her working at night, and taking care of my 2 yr old nephew! I had such a blast with him, cant wait to go spend more time with him!

CJ- A quiet weekend is nice sometimes. Glad you had a good weekend.

Cathy- Sounds like you have had a busy weekend. Congrats to your nephew on graduating.

Debbie- Glad you finally got back on the computer and that you had a good weekend!

Hello Hyacinths - It sure is great to hear from everyone. Thanks for checking in - considering how much is going on in your lives. We're having a quiet week-end - catching up with laundry and watching old movies. aaahhh Cary Grant!

Cathy - I'm happy that your nephew has graduated and they were able to have a good celebration. Hope Amber is able to make better choices - her life definitely does depend on it. As I write that I realize that we all affect our lives by the decisions we make. Good for me to remember, too.

Barbara - It's okay that you feel stressed - you have been through so much. When I use that much emotional energy I have to expect some coming down from all that crisis surge. You don't have to make yourself feel better - just know that it will happen. We had some sun breaks today also. WooHoo on the 3 miles.

Amy - That's great that you were able to sell your patio furniture. Thanks for the I loved it when you guys went out to sit by the pool -- you came up with a great solution -- food and being outdoors. Cool.

Debbie - Thanks to you and the team for your prayers. I'm at 4 days now and no side-effects. Yay

Amanda - Let us know what you find out about your chest pain. Take care.

CJ ~A&I March Dancing Daffodils BSG Team

~Team Co-Leader: Stronger Seniors, Laugh-A-Lot: a guide to a lighter lovable YOU

Sorry I didn't get a chance to check in yesterday. I was busy all day and only had a chance to get on here for about 10 minutes yesterday. I did some cleaning yesterday and we had to go into town to get some groceries. We rented a movie to watch as well. We watched Argo and thought it was a really good movie. We treated ourselves to some candy. DH bought some small almond joy candy. Ugh! Really sweet and I really didn't care for it. Thus, I only had one little one. I got some Ghirardeli chocolate squares with raspberry filling. Now those were good but I limited myself to just 2 of them.

My SIL posted pics of her son's graduation. Her daughter, Amber, was there with her walker. Yeah, she lost all of her muscles from this whole ordeal. My gosh, she is sooooo yellow! Her liver is still not functioning and I guess all of the medication they have her on is suppose to keep her alive. She will be eligible for a liver transplant in 6 months as long as she doesn't have any alcohol to drink. If she does have any to drink though, she will die. I just hope that she can stay away from alcohol and that she never has another drink again!

I bought some bulbs from Wal-mart yesterday because they were marked 1/2 off. So, I might try to get them planted today or at least some of them planted today.

Amanda - Glad you got to spend the day with your mom, sister and nephew. Great job on all of the walking around the festival. I really hope you'll get things checked out about your chest. It sounds like it might be something other than allergies.

Barbara - Glad to hear that yesterday wa a little better than things have been for the last few days. I hope the sun will come back to your area soon. How nice to hear that your hubby got a half hour massage and that it helped him feel a little better. I know it is hard to exercise at all when you are feeling bad. I do think some stretching though would probably do him some good. A little bit of exercise is better than none at all. I've counting my spring cleaning towards exercising too. My arms are sore for sure from the cleaning. It's not like you haven't had a ton of stuff going on so it's perfectly understandable that you haven't been getting much cleaning done. Hopefully, it will not be too bad if you do a little bit here and there. I'm sorry to hear you are having such a hard time with feeling happy. I'm sure everything that is going on with your hubby is taking it's toll on you and the weather probably isn't helping. Glad the sun came out for a bit today though and that you were able to get a 3 mile walk in.

CJ - Glad to hear you got all of your supplies and medication and that you are able to give yourself a shot now. It's really not bad once you've done it a few times. DH hates needles and had to give me shots when I was recovering from my broken leg. I've never experienced any side effects from the medication.

Amy - It's good to hear from you! It sounds like you've been quite busy. We haven't had any tornados here. I hope your class will not have to cancel their field trip on Thursday. I hope you get over your UTI soon; I despise them! lol I'm glad your mom is home. I hope she'll be feeling up to par soon. I'm sorry to hear that your dad doesn't function well when your mom isn't feeling well. Glad you were able to sell your patio furniture and grill and that Sean came over to help load the stuff into the people's van and truck. It sounds like you and the kids had a lot of fun at Field Day at school. I hope that the heater in your pool will not have to be replaced. Hopefully it's something that will not cost much to get fixed. I'm sure you have a lot of mixed feelings about only having four more weeks in your house. We've been having rain and some thunderstorms but nothing too bad. My niece is improving, but it's definitely going to be a long road to recovery. Hope you can check back again with us in a few days.

Debbie - Glad you were able to log in tonight to chat with us for a bit. That would be great if you could do the points this week!

I am finally back on the computer. Yesterday, by the time I had a chance to get on the computer. The weather was so bad I couldn't get on. Then tonight for some reason SP wasn't recognizing my Username and password. I was begining to think my account had been hacked. Tunded off the computer and left it alone for about an hour. Then had no trouble loging in.

Amy, it is good to hear from you. Talking about bad weather. We were hit pretty hard earlier this evening. My aunt who lives in Carney, OK lost her house to a tornado tonight. My aunt, her son, and dil all were in the cellar at the time the house was hit. They are all safe. Thank God!

Cathy, thank you so much for being the leader of this team. I will be happy to do the points this week if you would like.

CJ. I hope your treatment helps you with no side effects. I am keeping you in my prayers.

Barbara, I continue to keep your DH and you in my prayers. I have been back to zumba class twice now. I have to miss tomorrow because Katie has a vet appointment. I plan on being there Wednesday.

Amanda, hope you had a good weekend. Mine was a busy one with a wedding reception at the church Saturday night. Then grocery shopping afterwards.

Well I need to get some other things done before bed. Have a great evening.

Good evening my friends. It seems to have been quiet on here this weekend. I hope that means you've all been out having a good weekend. Me not so much, but I am sure this will pass. I just want it to pass now rather than later. The sun did come out for a bit today and I got in a nice 3 mile walk. Felt really good and I did better than I thought since I was pretty sore from yesterday's strength.

@ CJ - I am glad to hear that you are all set with your medications and that you are able to give yourself the injections. Now just praying you start feeling better.

@ Amy - It was great to read your nice long chat. I have missed you. I am glad your UTI is feeling better and that you will take all of the antibiotics! Your field day sounded like a lot of fun and how awesome that you got in so many steps even if you did not have the exact count. I imagine you have mixed feelings with all of the changes that you are facing.

I really miss everyone, so I decided to check in with all of you this morning. I tried yesterday morning, but I didn't have enough time to finish my post - we left to pick up the RV that was being worked on yesterday. We left at 8:00 and didn't get home till 2:00, so it took most of the day. It's a rainy weekend here, and it made me tired, so even though I had planned on doing a lot when we got back, I kind of lazed around. I think I needed a rest after a busy week.

Watching the news this morning and see that one person won the whole powerball lottery! I am not someone who likes to waste my money buying tickets, but my dh gets all excited about it..I get a kick out of him saying all he would do...I tell him our lives would be miserable!! LOL

I also am hearing about all the severe weather in the middle of the country with strong storms and tornados and hope it isn't affecting anyone, and you are all safe! We are just getting light rain this weekend...I am just concerned that my second graders have an outdoor field trip to do a field and stream study this Thursday and the weather forecast is calling for scattered thunderstorms right now. I hope the trip won't be cancelled!

I saved what I wrote yesterday, so I'm just going to paste it here, and then add a little more...

Checking in with all of you here, hoping you had a great week! I also tried to get on Thursday and couldn't - I thought it was really weird! I think that's great that they are giving everyone the free 50 points for chat and 100 interaction points. My week ended up well...busy of course! I am feeling better and this time will finish the bottle of antibiotics for my UTI. Let's see...Tuesday after work I went to my parents and took my dad grocery shopping. My mom is still feeling weak and her legs and feet are swollen. My sister called the doctor to get medicine for her. My dad also doesn't seem to function as well when my mom is not feeling well-he's been sleeping all the time. I know I have to go over there more often. I will go over there again Sunday.

On Thursday we sold all our patio furniture, umbrella and our stainless steel grill to a couple who are giving them to their son, who just bought a house. We sold them cheap, as we were just happy to get them off our hands. Thank goodness Sean came over for dinner, so he could help load everything. It took two trips with their van and pick up truck to get everything loaded.

Friday was a gorgeous day, sunny and in the mid 70's. We had our Field Day at school with a rock and roll theme. In the morning we took a 20 minute Rock and Roll Stroll around the playground track to some oldies rock music, and then in the afternoon we were outside for two and a half hours, going from station to station, playing different games and relays with a rock and roll name. The kids had a blast, and I really soaked it all in, knowing that this was my last Field Day as a teacher. One of my student's parents takes pictures for the yearbook, and she took a group picture of my class. We were on the Orange Gemstones team and were all wearing our orange tie-dyed tshirts. The only disappointing part of the day was when I realized I had forgotten to wear my fitbit! I think this was only the second day I have forgotten to wear it to school, and now I'm wondering how many steps I should have had for the day...I know I was well over 10,000 steps!

Our pool was opened on Thursday, but it takes awhile to get it all cleaned out and running properly. Dave can't get the heater to work, so we have to get that checked. Hopefully we won't have to pay for a new one! It was so lovely on Friday evening...I said, let's go sit out on the deck...oops, no lawn furniture! LOL We went out to dinner to a place that had outdoor seating instead!

Ok now I have to post this, and I will add some short responses in a bit. I still want to write to everyone privately on your walls. Dave is making a big breakfast...Sean is coming over to help us move all the boxes we have up in the attic down to the storage area, before it gets too hot up there to do it! Four more weeks left in our house! (mixed feelings!)

I am back....I was able to write responses before breakfast. I didn't read all of them since I've been here last, so I am just writing from your most recent posts.

CJ...I am so happy that you have all your meds/supplies and have started your treatment. WTG on doing the injection yourself! I am keeping my fingers crossed that it is effective and makes a great improvement in your health!

Barbie...I am sorry you were feeling depressed (very understandable!) but glad you are feeling somewhat better now and are trying to get back to your routine of exercise...hope the weather cooperates...gloomy weather really affects my mood, too! I am always amazed at how positive you try to be though...finding the right quotes really helps. I hope you can convince your dh to do a little exercising. Glad he felt somewhat better after the massage.

Amanda...I am very concerned that your chest is still hurting. I don't know why allergies would make it actually hurt, unless it's from coughing a lot. I hope you are able to get it checked again soon. Sounds like you are very busy this weekend but that's good you are getting in lots of exercise. How is your friend's son?

Cathy, great job on the deep spring cleaning! My least favorite part of that was always taking down all the curtains to wash and then iron. How is your weather there? Hope you are okay and not having any tornados. I need to check out your latest news on your niece. I hope she is improving!

Debbie, glad you got your computer working again. Good for you getting back to zumba and walking more again!

Darcy, how exciting that you are moving to a your first house! When will you move in? Good luck with everything! I know all about procrastination. We cleared out a lot of our stuff in the fall and winter, but still have lots to do. My sister coined the term doing "little bits" each day, and that's what I'm trying to do here at home, and also in my classroom. I spent an hour in my classroom the other day going through filing cabinets. I will definitely check out the TED talk. I've watched some before and love them.

Well, I hope to check in again in a few days. There is an Inservice Day on Tuesday, but I am taking off, since I have no interest in doing curriculum work. I will bring boxes of school files home to work on them at home.

Hello Hyacinths - Good news - all my supplies and the medication arrived and a nurse came out to my house to help me get started with treatment. I can now inject myself! Yes, I did it! So far I'm not experiencing any weird side effects (at least nothing I wasn't feeling before ) I'm at the beginning dosage and will check with dr. in 8 weeks. I've made a good start.

Yes, Barbara, it is alternately pouring rain, very windy or just plain dark and gloomy. I hope you can get some time to exercise outside. It will help me feel better too.

CJ ~A&I March Dancing Daffodils BSG Team

~Team Co-Leader: Stronger Seniors, Laugh-A-Lot: a guide to a lighter lovable YOU

Good evening my friends. Today was a tad better than it has been for the last few days. I would really have liked to see the sun today, but it didn't want to come out. Hopefully it will be back soon so I can get back into my routine of walking or biking, etc. I took hubby this afternoon to get a half hour massage and he said it helped his lower back/buttocks area. I am really trying to get him to do a little of something, even just stretching or something because I think it would help, but you know how it is when you feel really rotten. I didn't get in much exercise, but I did some strength while I was at the gym waiting for him to get his massage and I did some vacuuming today which is counting towards exercise too.

@ Amanda - I continue to pray about your chest. I am glad you think it is wise to have it checked, but I am praying it is nothing. Hugs. Your day with your family sounds like a good day even though it was tiring.

@ Cathy - way to go on your spring cleaning. It's been so long since I've done any cleaning I can only imagine how long it will take when I am finally able to get it done. LOL Today I did vacuum which it really needed. Tomorrow I hope to at least vacuum the kitchen. It really needs mopped, but that just might not happen.

@ Debbie - I hope you and Katie were able to get out for a walk today.

Good evening everyone! I had such a crazy day today, spent the day with my mom, sister and nephew! Im exhausted tonight. I got lots of exercise into my day, by walking around a festival and just walking in general. My chest really hurts tonight.....as much as I don't want to call the doctor and as much as I think its allergies, somethings telling me I should go get checked. I don't know when I will, as I don't drive and my husband has a busy week planting soy beans (hes a dairy and grain farmer) But if I get too bad before making an appointment, ill just go to the ER or walk in clinic.

Hope everyone had a great day! Ill be back at home tomorrow, so back to my normal routine. I loved being here and don't want to leave, but at the same time Im ready to go home!

Not much to report today except that I spent all day doing some deep spring cleaning. I should sleep well tonight after doing 3 hours of cleaning. lol

CJ - Don't worry about not getting on. Many people had the same problem. I got an error earlier in the day yesterday but by the time I got on late last night it had cleared up.

Amanda - That's really great that you are able to watch your nephew while your sister is working.

Barbara - I'm sorry you were feeling so low yesterday. The weather really can accentuate whatever mood you are in or help you come out of a depressing mood. Glad you got some exercise in today and that you got out for a walk. I hope that the sun comes back soon and will help to improve your mood. {{hugs}}

Debbie - Don't worry about not getting on yesterday. Things come up that we can't always plan for. I was just worried about you! Sorry to hear that you and Leslie were having so many problems with your computers. I hope you were able to get all of the bugs worked out. Glad to hear you are back in zumba and getting so much walking in.

We (challenge leaders) know a lot of challenge participants log onto Spark in the evening after work and couldn't get on yesterday. That means they were unable to get the points for Wednesday's chat or for communications with other participants while those of us who can Spark in the morning could.

We have decided that everyone should give themselves the 50 points for Wednesday's chat and the 100 points for BSG interaction for Wednesday. We truly think it's the fair way to handle the problems we had with Spark being down.

Sheila Aspire & Inspire Team ~ Co-leader June BSG ~ Peaches Team May BSG ~ Calla Lilies Team April BSG ~ April Showers Team

Good evening everyone! I hope everyone had a great day! I have a busy weekend ahead of me, so I will do my best to check in when I can. Its hard to tell with the crazy weekend, I have ahead of me. I hope everyone is doing well and had a wonderful day!

Cathy, I am sorry about not getting on yesterday. Leslie's computer lost its monitor and my computer virtually died. We were both busy trying to get my monitor and programs on her computer yesterday and working together properly. We finally got sparkpeople working this morning. We think we have the bugs worked out now. I will do my best to make up for my slack in the next two weeks.

I am finally back in zumba and managing to get more time in with my walking. As of today I am up to 8.25 miles for the week.

Good evening my friends. I am sorry to say that I have been feeling depressed and having a pity party for me for a couple of days.While I haven't overeaten too much, I just can't seem to keep from munching. Ugh! Anyway, I did make myself go out for a walk this morning while hubby was having his 2-1/2 hour PET scan and then use the elliptical this evening and did some upper body strength. I really need the sunshine and nice weather to come back. LOL

Hi my friends. My points for yesterday are going to be really low because I wasn't feeling in the mood to exercise, etc. and then I couldn't log on to Spark so I couldn't even get the chat or interaction points. Oh, well, I think there will be a lot of people in the same boat. LOL

Anyway, I will be back later today provided I can get back on. Have a fabulous Friday!

I'm not going to do the team points count to find the winning team for the week until this evening due to Spark being down so long yesterday. Please give yourself the bonus points if you tried to log on in time and couldn't. Please make sure I have your team total by at least 8 central time tonight (Friday). Sheila

Sheila Aspire & Inspire Team ~ Co-leader June BSG ~ Peaches Team May BSG ~ Calla Lilies Team April BSG ~ April Showers Team

Good morning! I couldn't log on last night, so will check in twice today. Hope everyone had a great and healthy day yesterday! I went to my sisters, and will be staying here for a few days to watch my nephew while shes working! So will check in as much as I can, but should be no problem checking at night after my nephew goes to bed! Have a good day everyone!

Just checking in to tell everyone - this is the first time I have been able to log - on in two days (and nights). I kept getting error messages. I had some direct e-mails from other members who said they couldn't get connected either Sorry about that. I'm hoping everything will be okay tomorrow and I can start our next week with you all. .

CJ ~A&I March Dancing Daffodils BSG Team

~Team Co-Leader: Stronger Seniors, Laugh-A-Lot: a guide to a lighter lovable YOU

Today I read an article about Exercising with Fibromyalgia. The article talks first about Fibromyalgia Symptoms. Then it talks about how Exercise Can Be an Effective Treatment for Fibromyalgia, Tips for Sticking with an Exercise Routine Despite Difficulties and Finding What Works Best for You. It was really an interesting article. I know many people suffer from Fibromyalgia. Here is the link to the article www.sparkpeople.com/resource/fitness_articles.asp?id=1823&page=4

The other article I read was called Motivated to Move. The article talks about how numbers motivate us all the time. Like when we see something we want that is expensive we'll set aside money so that we can eventually buy it. It talks about how you can also use numbers to motivate you to reach exercise goals. Challenge yourself to pedal the stationary bike for x number of minutes longer while maintaining a higher RPM, do one more push up, have a friendly competition between you and a friend or your spouse. See if you can get more steps in per day than your friend, spouse, or whomever else. Here is the link to the article www.sparkpeople.com/resource/fitness_articles.asp?id=252

I found out today that they release my niece from the hospital last night at 10 pm! Who releases a patient at 10 pm?? Her mom didn't think she should be going home so soon but maybe it's for the best. So many people get staph infections while being in the hospital these days and she certainly can't afford to get a staph infection. She's on 20 different med's and she will be relying on her husband heavily to help her through this.

On another note, I'm down 2 pounds! :) I did some new exercise videos from YouTube yesterday and many of my muscles are sore today. Also, the MRI came back with good news.

Darcy - I love TED TALK! I will have to watch the video. Thanks for the link!

Debbie - I hope Josh did well at his training class tonight. Yeah, I guess we'll just have to wait and see what happens with her liver. Thank you for keeping her in your prayers!

Barbara - At least you got to QiGong class this morning. Sometimes things just don't work out for exercising like we want. Glad you were okay with it. Sorry to hear that they changed some more of your hubby's med's on him. However, I hope the changes will help and that you'll get your questions answered by his cancer doctor. Yes, the MRI results were good. I expected that they would. I've never had a PET scan. I hope the results of his MRI and PET scan come back with positive news. I too wouldn't have thought that Zumba would be low impact but I think many exercises can be modified to be low impact. Those were interesting articles you read!

Amanda - Sorry your day was boring sitting with your friends' son at the hospital all day. I think I've read that article before but it wouldn't hurt to go back and read it again.

What a crazy crazy day. My friends son is in the hospital and they had to work today, so I went and sat with him at hospital today. I was gone from 8 am till 8 10 pm...such a long long boring day. I stayed on track and made great choices today!

Sorry this is so short, but im exhausted and I have another long day tomorrow! Hope everyone had a great day! Ill try to check in more over the next several days!

@ Cathy - I read the article from yesterday about Low Impact Exercises. I found it interesting some of the exercise they included - ones I wouldn't have thought, especially Zumba even though I know it is possible to lower the impact portions. Great article.

The articles I read today were Fastest Cardio Workouts (Ever) and Burn 100 calories in 10 minutes. Great articles because I know a lot of people, me included, don't think 10 minutes of exercise is worth the effort. Some of the exercises included in both articles were kickboxing, jumping rope, cycling 12 miiles per hour+, running 12 minute mile, and jumping jacks. It gave me a new perspective on having the all or nothing attitude. LOL

Good evening my friends. It's been a blah day for me. I got up and went to my QiGong class this morning which was amazing as usual, but after that it was not in the deck for me to do much. I think the fact that it started to sprinkle had a great deal to do with that, but I decided it was okay not to do what I planned as far as working out. My grandson and son came over this afternoon to trim the hedges. This afternoon hubby had an appointment with the kidney doctor. More adjusting of his medications to try to get his blood pressure not to be so low. Plus more questions to ask the cancer doctor about.

@ Debbie - How did the training with Josh go?

@ Darcy - thank you for sharing about the habits of happiness. I found it very interesting. Hubby and I are currently listening to some DVD lectures on mindfulness so it is something we are interested in.

@ Cathy - I hope the MRI results come back okay. Hubby had to have one of those too and Friday he has to have a PET scan which is something new and different for him.

@ CJ - I am glad reading about my massages make you aware of your breathing - that is something I need to work on more than I do. Hubby is having a lot of lower back pain right now so he has decided to give massage another go round soon to see if it might help.

@ Amanda - woo hoo that you are keeping on track. I'm doing okay with exercise, but I need to tighten up the nutrition a tad, but it isn't happening right now and I can't let that bother me.

Well tonight is the first night for training class for Josh. I am excited to go an watch. I told Leslie though if I am going to be a distraction I will go out and sit in the car. Katie has to stay home though.

Cathy, I am glad to hear your niece is improving. Her liver may not fully recover but then again you never know. I will keep her in my prayers.

Barb, I am pleased with my walking. I am back to my mile a day in good weather. I did go to zumba this morning. Good to hear you made today a me day.

Amanda, looks like you are off to a good start this week.

Darcy, no need to appologize for the points winning is not the important part. The support we give each other is.the important part.

Here is a quick bio: After training in biochemistry at the Institute Pasteur, Matthieu Ricard left science behind to move to the Himalayas and become a Buddhist monk -- and to pursue happiness, both at a basic human level and as a subject of inquiry. Achieving happiness, he has come to believe, requires the same kind of effort and mind training that any other serious pursuit involves.

It's late so I'm going to try to make my replies short. Had to go in for an MRI brain scan this afternoon. It wasn't the most pleasurable of experiences I've ever had because of problems with giving me the contrast dye. I don't expect that they'll find anything different or unusual because this is just a follow up MRI from a surgery I had many years ago. It's better to be safe than sorry though.

Debbie - It seems as though my niece is getting better. Her kidneys have improved but the whole thing with her liver is what stumps me. If your liver isn't working then there isn't any hope. It must be working some and regenerating some though if they are rehabilitating her. You are right though, doctors are definitely not always right. Hope you had a nice lunch with your friend. Great job on your walking!!

Amanda - I'm sorry to hear that your chest pain is worse today. It does sound as though it is at least partially stress induced. Good for you for being on track with everything though!

Darcy - Congratulations on buying your first home! I remember how exciting that is. I totally understand procrastinating something you don't necessarily want to do or aren't excited to do. :) I did that when we moved from Colorado to Missouri. No need to appologize for your points. It's been a busy week for me too and don't think I'll have a lot of points either. It happens; all we can do is the best we can do.

Barbara - I've seen the Cricut machine before. Hope you enjoyed your class. Great job on the exercise and treating yourself to a massage. I'm sure that with all that is going on with your hubby the massages help. It was a really interesting article. I definitely recommend reading it.

CJ - Sorry to hear that Stephanie caught your cold. I hope both of you will be feeling much better soon. I know you get migraines so that was one of the reasons why I chose to read that article. ;-) I too thought it was interesting that the way you cook foods can change their make-up and how your body reacts to them. That's really interesting about the carrots. Yeah, I've definitely learned to listen to my body over the last several years. lol Today was a better day. I don't have grumpy days hardly ever. I'm hoping that tomorrow will be a better day than yesterday or today. I wouldn't mind if it was sunny, cheery, funny, creative and funky!

Hello Friends - Well Stephanie caught my cold so she stayed home from work today and slept most of the day through. I'm feeling a bit better and coughing way less. Also it has rained - so the allergy index is way lower. Yay!

Darcy - congratulations on your first home. What a special time for you and your hubby. Do you have a move in date? Packing is not my favorite task, either. It's lots more fun to "un" pack and put all your things in your new space. Hope it all goes smoothly for you.

Amy - How are you doing? Glad to hear your mom is home from the hospital.

Barbara - Sounds good that you got in your exercise. I'm so envious of your massage adventures. I found myself breathing more deeply just reading about it!

Cathy - There were lots of good things in the migraine article your pointed out for us. Thanks. As a person who has migraines, I am always looking for ideas of ways to help. I think it's interesting to learn that the way you cook foods can change their make-up and how your body reacts to them. My mom used to make me eat carrots cooked and I would gag and throw up. I liked carrots raw (still do). Later I found out that cooking changes them chemically and other people have the same reaction I do. Another reason to listen to what our body tells us. Now that you have gotten your grumpy day out of the way - there is room for sunny, cheery, funny, creative, and funky. Only tomorrow will tell!

Amanda - sounds like you are making some useful observations about what helps you feel good and what doesn't. Extra stress certainly complicates whatever is already bothering you. Great that you are staying on track. WooHoo.

Debbie - 3.5 miles. Hooray! Glad to hear you are getting out to walk. Are you using a pedometer? Sounds like you are really looking forward to resuming zumba soon.

CJ ~A&I March Dancing Daffodils BSG Team

~Team Co-Leader: Stronger Seniors, Laugh-A-Lot: a guide to a lighter lovable YOU

Most Americans Should Eat Less Salt But according to Health News Day it is hard to determine what the right balance is between too much and not enough salt. At least 2/3 of our salt intake comes from processed foods (have you checked how much sodium is in canned soup?) This article is calling for better studies to find out what the upper AND lower limits of salt intake should be. www.sparkpeople.com/resource/health_news_detail.asp?health_day=676379

My personal experience is that I feel better when I keep my salt intake at a lower level. Maybe that's the best answer - listen to your body and see what works for you.

CJ ~A&I March Dancing Daffodils BSG Team

~Team Co-Leader: Stronger Seniors, Laugh-A-Lot: a guide to a lighter lovable YOU

Good evening my friends. After yesterday's busy day with all the doctors appointments and all today has been a fun day, well not for hubby, but for me. First I took a 2 hour class to learn more about my Cricut machine and made two pretty cards. Then I went for a nice 8 mile bike ride and did 20 minutes of upper body before going for my one hour massage which felt heavenly. I love my new massage therapist.

I am sorry to say that I didn't feel like reading articles today, but it is what it is and I know you all understand.

@ Darcy - I think I am with you on your ability to avoid chores which are something I detest. How fun to have just purchased your first home. I hope the move goes smoothly and you will really enjoy it.

@ Cathy - the article on low impact activities sounds interesting. I will have to go and read it.

@ Amanda - have fun watching your friends' kids.

@ Debbie -woo hoo on your 3.5 miles in 3 days. I think 300 should be totally doable for you. Have fun!

Amy, I am sorry to hear that you are no longer participating in the challenge and that there is still so much going on. I hope life calms down for you soon so you can relax and enjoy. Good luck with cleaning out your classroom and I am glad to hear your mom is headed home. I look forward to your guest posts.

I am also moving (my husband and I bought our first house) and have been procrastinating about packing... told myself I would pack tonight and I still didn't... I am extremely talented at avoiding chores I do not really enjoy!

I am apologizing in advance for this week, I was more or less MIA and my points are reflecting that. I am sorry team.

I read an article today called Low-Impact Exercises that Burn Major Calories. For an exercise to be low impact, one foot must always be in contact with the ground or your weight must be supported by water or by a machine. So you've got plenty of options when it comes to choosing a low-impact workout—and that doesn't mean it has to be easy (unless you want it to be). The things you want to avoid are high-impact moves like running, jumping, skipping rope, plyometrics and dance workouts that involve leaping. The article then gives you 15 low-impact workouts you can try that are ranked by calorie burn. Here is the link to the article www.sparkpeople.com/resource/fitness_articles.asp?id=1843 .

The next article I read was Common Food that Can Trigger Migraines. The foods you eat, how long you go between meals, and the nutritional balance of your meals (ratio of protein to carbohydrates to fat) can all be migraine triggers. The article gives some common migraine triggers in food, food additives, and a chart that shows foods and beverages that are known possible triggers. It also notes that the cooking and processing of a food can change its chemical makeup. The article also talks about Nutrional Supplements for Migraines and warning signs that a migraine might be coming on. Here is the link to the article www.sparkpeople.com/resource/nutrition_articles.asp?id=1840&page=3

Good afternoon! This will be quick since I did to change, eat lunch, and get ready to head over my my friends to watch their kids. Im thinking the chest pain is something to do with stress also, as today its worse and im totally stressed out. But Im on track, I have 7 water in so far, and have my meals and snacks planned for rest of day!

I have a busy rest of week, but will check in when I can! Hope everything is doing well!

Amy, I am sorry to hear that you are leaving the Challenge. I understand though the pressure you are under with the end of school and moving out of the house into the RV. I hope you will find sometime to come visit when you can.

Barb, since I started keeping track of my miles I have managed 3.5 miles in 3 days. I imagine I will come close to doubling that when I get back to zumba. My goal is only 300 miles by December.

Cathy, maybe your niece is getting better. I know from experience that sometimes the doctors are not always right. I had one doctor tell me Ray wouldn't make it through the night because his kidneys were not functioning like they should.

I just got a phone call from my friend Darlene. She is moving to TX next weekend. She has invited me out to lunch. It will probably be our last time out together. I need to go change clothes before she gets here. I will be back later to finish my posting and responses.

TOday I read an article called Increase Your Abe-ility. Through a history of personal, business and political failures, a stormy marriage, and an unpopular presidency, Abraham Lincoln persevered. He possessed many other characteristics besides persistance. He used other strategies that carried him through. Whether you have weight loss goals or other goals, you can learn from his approach to life. The main highlights are: Get Comfortable With Failure, Know What You Know, Make the Most of Your Talents, Stay Connected and Be Grateful. This was a really awesome and motivating article. I highly recommend reading it. I remember many of his struggles though since I've been to the Lincoln Presidential Museum in Illinois though. :-) Here is the link to the article www.sparkpeople.com/resource/motivation_articles.asp?id=111

The other article I read today was How to Get Ripped Off - Guarenteed! I know a bit of a contrast in articles but this one has Consumer Tips. Bogus exercise equipment and nutrition scams have been assaulting us for about as long as anyone can remember. According to author Dr. James Harvey Young, the scams date back as early as 1630. The article gives five tips from Stephen Barrett's 10 Ways to Avoid Being Quacked to help you protect yourself from exercise and nutrition foolery. Here is the link to the article www.sparkpeople.com/resource/fitness_articles.asp?id=316

Today was kind of a mixed day. DH was grumpy this morning and afternoon which put me in a bad mood as well. I got up early and tried to take a nap but I couldn't sleep which didn't improve my mood any. However, we did get some good news for a change about my niece. I posted it in a blog.

Barbara - It sounds like you had a really long and busy day. I can only imagine how tired your hubby must have been! It makes me tired just thinking about it! lol Sorry to hear about the bone spurs in his shoulder. I'm guessing they will not do anything about it unless they really bother him and he's done with chemo. Glad you got your exercise in though and that you ate within your calorie range! I understand wanting to get the darn scale moving down again! lol It's true though, everyone does feel sorry for themselves from time to time. I think it's just a part of being human. :) Yeah, I thought so too about hospice but things were different today. I think you are doing very well at handling all that is going on with your hubby!

Amanda - Sorry to hear about your friends son. It sounds like they made a wise decision to admit him since he has a history of infections getting worse. Hope you make time for yourself this week while you are watching your friends' other two children. I'll have to read that article; it sounds interesting!

Amy - That's good news about your friend who lost her husband last year. Glad to hear that mom and baby are happy and healthy. It's completely understandable to drop out considering that you have so much on your plate right now. We would love for you to come chat with us when you can! I know you are going through a lot of changes but I would really miss keeping up with what's going on with you!! I think you are making a wise decision to drop out actually. You need to focus on your health as well as everything else. Congrats on the 32 days left! Be kind to yourself and be sure to take deep breaths when things seem overwhelming!

CJ - That's a great article you read! I know that a lot of times when kids bully other kids is because of something going on in their own home. I don't know for sure if I was necessarily bullied in school but I certainly wouldn't choose to go back to grade school or middle school and especially not high school. School was not a good time for me. My senior year had to have been my worst year in school. I hated it and couldn't wait to be done with it. Glad to hear that your cold is much better.

SparkPeople, SparkCoach, SparkPages, SparkPoints, SparkDiet, SparkAmerica, SparkRecipes, DailySpark, and other marks are trademarks of SparkPeople, Inc. All Rights Reserved.
SPARKPEOPLE is a registered trademark of SparkPeople, Inc. in the United States, European Union, Canada, and Australia. All rights reserved.

NOTE: Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy last updated on October 25, 2013